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Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many